As many of you may have seen on social media or in the news, numerous towns in the province of València, Spain have been devastated by unprecedented floods. This is one of the worst disasters to hit Spain resulting in 214 deaths as 11 November 2024. In València, 23 people are still actively missing, and 3 recovered bodies remain unidentified. Initially, 93 people were reported missing on 6 November 2024.
Authorities are continuing to provide updates as new information comes in, so numbers may still change. El País, a Spanish newspaper, is offering the latest storm updates free of charge. View their recent article with picture and video stories from the flooding.
Timeline and Location of the Flood
On 29 October 2024, more than 71 towns near València experienced terrible flooding, resulting in families losing their homes, belongings, and lives. The entire country is currently mobilizing to assist the victims of this natural disaster, and any financial support you can offer is both needed and appreciated to help rebuild homes and businesses and facilitate recovery.
How to Support València
At Inclusive Communication Services (ICS), we’re reaching out to our network for support by sharing donation links that go directly to reputable organizations working on the ground to bring relief and restore hope. To help amplify their message, we’re offering translation support so more people who’ve experienced the beauty of Spain can understand how their donations help rebuild communities.
If donating isn’t possible right now, a simple share to spread the word can make a big difference.
1. Support the Food Bank of Valencia
“After the devastating passage of the DANA in the province of Valencia, we need more than ever the solidarity of the people. From the Food Bank of Valencia, we make a special appeal on this platform to ask for your help. The work is incessant and exhausting as all the material that reaches us from all parts of the country is not enough. Therefore, we need more. We need economic resources to ensure basic needs during the next weeks and months to all the people affected by this tragedy. Help us. Donate. We need it.”
2. Support the Horta Sud Foundation
“Collaborate to help people affected by the several floods. The Horta Sud Foundation is at the service of the people affected by the several floods in Horta Sud. We need your help to rebuild lives. DONATE NOW. ”
3. Support World Central Kitchen
“World Central Kitchen Relief Teams are on the ground in the Valencia region of Spain to provide food, potable water, and other support after the worst flooding these communities have seen in decades. At least 200 people have died, and dozens more are missing. Over 100,000 households are without electricity, and recovery operations are underway to clear mud and debris. Support our work.”
Translation Support
Every donation, large or small, is a meaningful contribution to those affected by this tragedy. Thank you for your compassion and willingness to help those in need.
If you or your organization need translation support to expand the reach of your relief efforts, please contact the ICS C.A.R.E.S. program by emailing cares@inclusiveASL.com. We’re committed to ensuring that language is never a barrier to supporting each other in times of crisis.
As an interpreter and translator who proudly calls Spain home, this cause is especially close to my heart. If you’re a translator interested in volunteering your time and skills to support relief efforts, please reach out directly to me at aitana@inclusiveasl.com . Together, we can make a difference.
What is DANA?
This disaster is the result of a phenomenon known as a DANA, or Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos, which refers to isolated high-altitude storms that can produce torrential rain, causing severe damage in short periods. Recent years have seen an uptick in these weather events in Spain, often linked to climate changes that increase the likelihood and severity of extreme weather patterns’ impact on local communities.
Why is Your Help so Desperately Needed?
In response, thousands of volunteers who self-organized quickly, have walked up to lead critical relief efforts, filling the gaps left by institutional responses. Traveling several kilometers by foot from surrounding municipalities, bringing the essentials, tools, and hands-on assistance to each flood-affected community. Support from neighboring French firefighters also lent a hand, responding swiftly to conduct reconnaissance efforts.
It’s the grassroots organizations and efforts that make the real difference, as communities unite to provide essential aid and resources. The impact of these floods will resonate across Spain in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Right now, what matters most is stepping in to help and save lives.
Valencians no esteu sols, estem amb vosaltres.
Valencians, you’re not alone, we’re with you.
